📋 Nutrition Facts
Main Alcohol Rum
Alcohol 10%
Calories 250 calories
Fat 0g
Protein 0g
Carbohydrates 30g
Prep time 5 minutes
Dive into the vibrant world of the Applebees Shark Bowl cocktail, a drink that’s as exciting to look at as it is to sip. In this feature, we’ll explore the rich history, the tantalizing taste, and the artful presentation that makes this cocktail a standout choice. From its intriguing origins to its refreshing flavors, join us as we delve into everything that makes the Applebees Shark Bowl a true spectacle in a glass. Come along on this flavorful journey with us! ⬇️
History
The Applebees Shark Bowl cocktail is a relatively new addition to the world of themed restaurant drinks, capturing the hearts of diners with its fun appearance and tasty blend. Born out of the desire to create a memorable dining experience, it quickly became a signature offering at Applebee’s. Its popularity is a testament to the enduring appeal of novelty drinks in American casual dining.
- The name ‘Shark Bowl’ is inspired by the cocktail’s oceanic blue color and shark gummy garnish.
- It was created as part of a promotional menu, often tied to events like Shark Week.
- The cocktail reflects a trend in restaurants to create Instagram-worthy drinks that patrons love to share online.
The taste of an Applebees Shark Bowl?
When you take a sip of an Applebees Shark Bowl, you’re greeted with a wave of tropical flavors, a blend of fruity sweetness with a hint of tartness. It’s like a beach vacation in a bowl, with notes of coconut, pineapple, and a dash of citrus dancing together in harmony.
I personally love drinking Applebees Shark Bowls because they’re incredibly refreshing, especially on a hot day.
Interesting facts about Applebees Shark Bowl
- The vibrant blue color of the drink comes from the addition of blue curaçao, a sweet blue liqueur.
- Despite its playful appearance, the Shark Bowl is a strong cocktail, often containing multiple types of alcohol.
- The drink is traditionally served with a gummy shark, making it a hit among guests looking for a unique twist.
Ingredients
- Rum: 1 oz (30ml)
- Vodka: 1 oz (30ml)
- Blue Curaçao: 0.5 oz (15ml)
- Pineapple Juice: 2 oz (60ml)
- Lemonade: 2 oz (60ml)
- Gummy Shark: for garnish
A fishbowl glass is the best type of glass to use when serving an Applebees Shark Bowl to enhance the thematic presentation. The wide brim and large size allow for the full effect of the drink’s ocean-inspired visuals. An alternative could be a large stemless wine glass, which also provides enough room for the drink and garnishes.
Recipe. How to make Applebees Shark Bowl
- Pour 1 oz (30ml) of rum and 1 oz (30ml) of vodka into the fishbowl glass.
- Add 0.5 oz (15ml) of blue curaçao to achieve the signature blue color.
- Mix in 2 oz (60ml) of pineapple juice and 2 oz (60ml) of lemonade for that tropical flavor.
- Stir the ingredients well, add ice, and garnish with a playful gummy shark.
While the Applebees Shark Bowl is a fun and flavorful treat, it’s also a sugary one. To make a healthier version, you could swap out the pre-made lemonade for fresh lemon juice mixed with a touch of honey. The ingredients, like pineapple juice, do provide some vitamins, but moderation is key due to the sugar and calorie content.
Food Pairings
The bold and fruity flavors of an Applebees Shark Bowl pair wonderfully with a variety of foods. Let’s explore some tantalizing combinations that will enhance your cocktail experience.
Spicy Appetizers
The sweetness of the Applebees Shark Bowl contrasts beautifully with spicy dishes, balancing the heat and making each bite more enjoyable.
Grilled Seafood
Seafood, especially when grilled, has a smoky and light taste that complements the tropical notes of the cocktail, creating a symphony of flavors.
Chicken Tenders
The casual and universally loved chicken tenders are a great match for the playful nature of the Shark Bowl, ideal for a fun meal out.
I really enjoy the taste of Applebees Shark Bowls—the cool mint and zesty lime make it a perfect drink for relaxing after a long week.
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Bartender Advice
- Always use freshly squeezed juices to enhance the vibrant flavors of the drink.
- For an extra touch of theatre, add dry ice to create a bubbling, misty effect.
- Balance is key; make sure the sweetness and acidity are in harmony for the perfect sip.
Now that you’ve mastered the classic Applebees Shark Bowl, in the sections below we’ll shake things up by showing the customizable elements you can alter and introducing a range of exciting variations to try in your next concoction.
What you could change in Applebees Shark Bowl
- Rum: Can be replaced with coconut rum for an extra tropical twist.
- Blue Curaçao: Try using a splash of grenadine for a sunset-like color effect.
- Lemonade: Use sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon for a lighter version.
Applebees Shark Bowl Variations
Tropical Storm
- Ingredients: Add mango nectar and a splash of grenadine.
- Recipe: Follow the original recipe, topping the drink with grenadine for a gradient effect.
Berry Reef
- Ingredients: Use raspberry vodka and cranberry juice.
- Recipe: Mix the new ingredients with the standard ones for a berry-infused twist.
Green Lagoon
- Ingredients: Substitute blue curaçao with Midori for a green hue.
- Recipe: Combine the Midori with the other ingredients and garnish with a slice of kiwi.
For a non-alcoholic version of the Applebees Shark Bowl, simply mix pineapple juice, lemonade, and a splash of blue sports drink. Garnish with a gummy shark to keep the fun presentation.
Q&A
Can I make an Applebees Shark Bowl in advance?
Sure thing! Mix all the ingredients except the ice and keep it refrigerated. Just add ice right before serving to keep it cool and fresh.
What if I can’t find blue curaçao?
No worries, you can use blue sports drink for color or skip it for a less vibrant but still tasty drink.
Is the Applebees Shark Bowl suitable for kids?
Definitely, as long as you make the non-alcoholic version mentioned above; it’s a party hit for all ages!
What’s the best way to serve Applebees Shark Bowl to a crowd?
Consider a large punch bowl and let guests serve themselves with a ladle. It’s a spectacle and a crowd-pleaser!
How can I make the Applebees Shark Bowl healthier?
Swap the pre-made lemonade for fresh lemon and a natural sweetener, and avoid the gummy shark if you’re cutting back on sugar.
Could I use different fruit juices in the Applebees Shark Bowl?
Absolutely, feel free to experiment with other tropical juices like mango or passionfruit to tailor it to your taste buds.
